Old Testament
Micah 1:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Micah 1:5 highlights the reasons for God's judgment on Israel and Judah.
- Author
- Micah the prophet
- Written
- Around 735-700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and Israel
All of this is because of Jacob's rebellion and the sins of the house of Israel. What is the source of Jacob's rebellion? Isn't it Samaria? And where are Judah's pagan shrines? Right there in Jerusalem!
For the transgression of Jacob is all this, and for the sins of the house of Israel. What is the transgression of Jacob? is it not Samaria? and what are the high places of Judah? are they not Jerusalem?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Micah 1:5 highlights the reasons for God's judgment on Israel and Judah. The verse points out that the rebellion of Jacob (representing Israel) and the sins of the house of Israel are the root causes of their impending doom. It specifically identifies Samaria as the source of Jacob's rebellion, indicating that the capital city is a center of idolatry and sin. Additionally, it questions the high places of Judah, suggesting that even in Jerusalem, the heart of worship, there are pagan shrines. This reflects a deep spiritual corruption that has infiltrated both the northern and southern kingdoms, leading to their downfall. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of true worship.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Micah 1:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own lives for areas of rebellion and idolatry. Just as Israel faced consequences for their sins, we too must be mindful of our relationship with God. We should strive to remove any distractions or false idols that hinder our worship and commitment to Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Micah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Micah 1:5 mean?
Micah 1:5 explains that the judgment on Israel and Judah is due to their rebellion and sins. It identifies Samaria as the source of Jacob's rebellion and highlights the presence of pagan shrines in Jerusalem, indicating widespread spiritual corruption.
What is the significance of Jacob's rebellion in Micah 1:5?
Jacob's rebellion in Micah 1:5 represents the collective sins of Israel, emphasizing that their disobedience to God has led to impending judgment. It serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from true worship.
What are the high places of Judah mentioned in Micah 1:5?
The high places of Judah in Micah 1:5 refer to locations in Jerusalem where pagan worship occurred. This highlights the spiritual corruption even in the heart of Judah, where idolatry coexisted with the worship of God.
How does Micah 1:5 relate to idolatry?
Micah 1:5 connects idolatry to the rebellion of Jacob by showing that both Israel and Judah engaged in sinful practices, including worshiping false gods. This idolatry is a key reason for God's judgment against them.

The Book of Micah
Micah 1: Judgment Against Samaria and Judah
The word of the Lord comes to Micah the Morasthite during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. He speaks concerning Samaria and Jerusalem. The Lord calls all people of the earth to listen as He rises from His holy temple to witness against His people. The mountains melt under Him and the valleys split apart because of the sins of Jacob and the rebellion of the house of Israel. Samaria becomes a heap in the field, and her carved images are broken and burned.
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